Published Thursday, 29 May, 2008 at 05:00 AM
Minister for Mines and Energy
The Honourable Geoff Wilson
Who wants to be a millionaire?
Time is running out for junior explorers in Queensland who want to be the next Nathan Tinkler and make their mark and their millions in mining.
Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said junior explorers had one day left to apply for grants to help them in their search for new mineral prospects.
Minister Wilson said $240,000 in grants was up for grabs and encouraged explorers to send in their application forms before the cut off date.
“We want to give junior explorers a leg up to set them on the path to discovery,” Mr Wilson said.
“Today’s exploration will bring about the jobs of tomorrow.
Grant applications close this Friday 30th May.
Junior explorers can apply for grants of up to $40,000 to help cover their research costs.
A junior mineral exploration company is defined as one that has:
·no cash flow from an operating mine within the last 12 months;
·minimal working capital; and
·assets in the form of mineral exploration properties in Australia or overseas
“The Bligh Government recognises the fact that mineral exploration can be costly,” he said.
Mr Wilson said the grants would help junior explorers access state-of-the-art data that pinpoints areas with high potential for mineral discoveries.
“It takes the guess work out of the equation,” he said.
“Queensland is such a resource-rich state. There’s huge potential for more exciting mineral discoveries.
“It’s a great boost for mineral exploration and that’s good for the state’s economy and the people who live and work in mining regions,” he said.
“Grants will be allocated for research projects that use any industry think-tank and other specialist services to jointly develop concepts and new techniques to further their exploration knowledge.
Junior explorers can apply for grants which will help them recover half of the actual research costs up to $40,000 per application.
“We want to spark a mini exploration rush and I encourage all eligible companies to get their application in.”
Media inquiries: Minister’s Office 3224 7332